Ready for film festivals, monster trucks, Arabian horses and after-dark adventures? It’s all happening in the Southwest this January and February. Southwest winter events are all about getting out in the sunshine—even if it’s snowing where you’re at.
From cultural celebrations to adrenaline-fueled shows, here are events near you (or a quick road trip away) to enjoy soon.
Southwest Winter Events
Texas
Kicker Monster Truck Show – Jan. 31, Amarillo
The trucks are headed to Texas now for a night of high-octane stunts and jaw-dropping jumps from these massive machines. This is pure, unapologetic fun for kids and kids at heart.
Learn more at kickermonstertruck.com/amarillo
Full Moon Hike—Feb. 1, El Paso
See the desert in a whole new light—literally—on this guided full moon 4-mile hike under West Texas skies at the Franklin State Park. Bring a flashlight, dress warm and be ready for the first full moon of the year.
Learn more at visitelpaso.com/events/full-moon-hike
Texas Farm, Ranch & Wildlife Expo—Feb. 19 & 20, Abilene
Celebrate the land, livestock and traditions that define Texas with the longest-running farm show in the state. Walk through exhibits, see demonstrations and enjoy family-friendly fun. Admission is free.
Learn more at abilenevisitors.com/events/texas-farm-ranch-wildlife-expo/
New Mexico
Chile Amor Cooking Class & Tastings—Jan. 30, Santa Fe
New Mexico’s favorite ingredient takes center stage in this flavorful cooking class and tasting experience. Held by the Santa Fe School of Cooking, this is where you can learn how to cook (and eat) uniquely Southwest foods, including tortillas.
Learn more at santafe.org/event/chile-amor-cooking-class
Outdoor Adventures Show—Feb. 13-15, Albuquerque
From fishing and hunting to hiking and camping, this show is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Gear up, get inspired, and start planning your next New Mexico adventure.
Learn more at wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/outdoor-show/.
Arizona
Arabian Horse Show & Shopping Expo—Feb. 12-22, Scottsdale
One of Scottsdale’s most anticipated annual events, grace, power and pageantry collide at the Arabian horse events. Stay for the shopping expo, where Western art and luxe finds steal the show.
Learn more at scottsdaleshow.com/shows/scottsdale-arabian-horse-show
Waste Management Phoenix Open—Feb. 2, Phoenix
Equal parts PGA Tour stop and high-energy festival, this iconic tournament is for Golf purists and party-seekers alike.
Get tickets and learn more at wmphoenixopen.com.
Utah
Winter Roundup 2026—Feb. 7, Salt Lake
Winter Roundup brings cowboy culture indoors with live music, Western vendors, skijoring, sack races and more. This free event is a cozy, boots-on celebration of Utah’s frontier spirit.
Learn more at visitsaltlake.com/winter-roundup/
Colorado
Paints & Pigments: A Colorful History—Feb. 7, Denver
Held at the Denver Art Museum, this event is a feast for the eyes as you discover how color has shaped art, culture and storytelling through the ages. This is a limited event to keep the tour small and personal.
Learn more at denverartmuseum.org/en/calendar/paints-pigments-colorful-history
Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-off & Manitou Carnivale—Feb. 14, Manitou
The Mardi Gras is being celebrated Colorado style, with a parade and festival. Before the event, join in the Mumbo Jumbo Cook-off for soul-warming food, then stay awhile for snow fights, icy fun and other whimsical winter traditions.
Learn more at manitousprings.org/carnivale-weekend/.
Southern California
Film Festival Credit Blake Bronstad, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara International Film Festival—Feb. 4-14, Santa Barabara
Red carpets meet coastal charm at this acclaimed film festival celebrating independent cinema, along with big-name talent. Enjoy screenings, panels with celebrities and more.
Learn more at https://sbiff.org
Southern Nevada
Dam Short Film Festival—Feb. 11-16, Boulder City
This international film festival just outside of Las Vegas is about the independent short film maker. Watch creative storytelling and attend filmmaker Q&As after.
Learn more at damshortfilm.org
Stay tuned for more Southwest winter events coming soon!